Tyre Sampson was a 14-year-old who tragically died after falling from the FreeFall drop tower ride at ICON Park in Orlando in March 2022.
The incident was captured on cellphone video, which circulated widely online and was referenced in numerous news reports.Key details about the video and the incident
The video shows Tyre Sampson in his seat moments before the ride began its ascent.
Observers noted that his over-the-shoulder restraint appeared to be positioned higher compared to other riders, raising questions about whether it was properly secured.
According to accident reports and expert analysis, the harness was still in a “down and locked” position when the ride stopped, but Tyre fell out as the magnets engaged to slow the ride during its descent.
The ride’s manual specified a maximum passenger weight of 130 kilograms (about 287 pounds), but Tyre reportedly weighed over 300 pounds, leading to concerns about whether he should have been allowed on the ride.
The video is described by attorney Ben Crump, who represents Tyre Sampson’s family, as one of the worst tragedies ever captured on video, underscoring the preventable nature of the incident.
The video itself is not typically shown in full by major news outlets due to its graphic and distressing content, but still images and edited clips have been used in news coverage to illustrate the circumstances leadafeing up to the fall.
Some platforms, such as YouTube and Reddit, host discussions and news segments referencing the video, but viewers should be aware that the original footage is extremely graphic and sensitive in nature.
The incident led to significant legal action and changes:Tyre Sampson’s family was awarded $310 million in damages in a wrongful death lawsuit against the ride’s operators and manufacturers.
